Patentable/Patents/US-11515729
US-11515729

Apparatus and method with wireless power relay

PublishedNovember 29, 2022
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Inventorsnot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

A wireless power relay apparatus includes: a first antenna configured to wirelessly receive an alternating current (AC) power signal of a first frequency from a wireless power transmission apparatus; a rectifier configured to convert the received AC power signal into a direct current (DC) power; a storage device configured to store electric energy of the DC power output from the rectifier; a power oscillator configured to generate an AC power signal of a second frequency based on an output current of the rectifier and electric energy of a DC voltage stored in the storage device; and a second antenna configured to transmit the AC power signal of the second frequency to a wireless power reception apparatus.

Patent Claims
11 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the power oscillator is configured to start to oscillate, in response to the first antenna starting to receive the AC power signal of the first frequency and the DC voltage stored in the storage device reaching the reference value.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless power transfer systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently initiating power oscillation in a receiving device when an alternating current (AC) power signal is received. The apparatus includes a power oscillator that begins oscillation only when two conditions are met: the first antenna starts receiving an AC power signal of a specific frequency, and the stored direct current (DC) voltage in an energy storage device reaches a predefined reference value. This ensures that the oscillator activates under optimal conditions, preventing premature or inefficient operation. The system likely includes a storage device to accumulate and regulate the received power before enabling the oscillator, ensuring stable and controlled power transfer. The apparatus may also incorporate a control mechanism to monitor the stored DC voltage and the incoming AC signal, triggering the oscillator only when both conditions are satisfied. This approach improves energy efficiency and reliability in wireless power transmission by avoiding unnecessary activation of the oscillator when power conditions are insufficient. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring precise power management, such as portable electronics or medical devices, where efficient energy utilization is critical.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the power oscillator is configured to remain in an off state until the DC voltage reaches the reference value, start to oscillate at a point in time at which the DC voltage reaches the reference value, and generate the AC power signal of the second frequency, without being controlled by a control signal.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power oscillator circuits used in electronic devices, particularly those requiring precise timing for activation based on a DC voltage threshold. The problem addressed is the need for a power oscillator that remains inactive until a specific DC voltage level is reached, then automatically begins oscillation at a predefined frequency without requiring external control signals. The apparatus includes a power oscillator and a DC voltage monitoring circuit. The DC voltage monitoring circuit compares the input DC voltage to a reference value. The power oscillator remains in an off state until the DC voltage matches the reference value. At that point, the oscillator activates and generates an AC power signal at a second frequency, operating independently without further control signals. This design ensures reliable and synchronized activation of the oscillator based solely on the DC voltage level, eliminating the need for additional control circuitry. The system is particularly useful in applications where precise timing and minimal component complexity are critical, such as in power management or signal generation circuits. The oscillator's automatic activation upon reaching the reference voltage simplifies system design while maintaining accurate frequency output.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the power oscillator is configured to oscillate at the second frequency based on the DC voltage supplied from the storage device and the current supplied from the rectifier.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power conversion systems, specifically apparatuses for generating and managing electrical power. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently converting and regulating power in applications where stable and reliable power delivery is critical, such as in renewable energy systems or battery-powered devices. The apparatus includes a power oscillator that generates an alternating current (AC) output at a first frequency. A rectifier converts this AC output into a direct current (DC) voltage, which is then supplied to a storage device, such as a battery or capacitor, for energy storage. The stored DC voltage is used to power a load, such as an electronic circuit or motor. Additionally, the power oscillator can operate at a second frequency, determined by the DC voltage from the storage device and the current supplied by the rectifier. This dual-frequency operation allows the system to dynamically adjust its power output based on the available energy and load requirements, improving efficiency and stability. The rectifier may include a transformer to step up or step down the voltage before rectification, ensuring compatibility with the storage device and load. The storage device provides a stable DC voltage, which can be regulated to maintain consistent power delivery. The power oscillator's ability to switch between frequencies enables adaptive power management, optimizing energy conversion and usage in varying operational conditions. This design enhances reliability and performance in power conversion applications.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rectifier, the storage device, and the second antenna are connected to a common node.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless power transmission systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently transferring and storing energy in such systems. The apparatus includes a rectifier, a storage device, and a second antenna, all connected to a common node. The rectifier converts received wireless power into usable direct current (DC) electricity. The storage device, such as a battery or capacitor, stores the converted energy for later use. The second antenna is used to transmit or receive wireless power, depending on the system configuration. By connecting these components to a common node, the apparatus ensures efficient energy flow and management, reducing losses and improving overall system performance. This design is particularly useful in applications where wireless power transfer and storage are required, such as in portable electronics, sensor networks, or electric vehicle charging systems. The common node simplifies the circuit design and enhances reliability by minimizing the number of interconnections. The invention improves energy efficiency and system integration in wireless power applications.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wireless power relay apparatus is configured to be detachably mounted on a surface of the wireless power transmission apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A wireless power relay apparatus is designed to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of wireless power transmission systems. The apparatus is configured to be detachably mounted on the surface of a wireless power transmission device, allowing for modular and adaptable power delivery. The relay apparatus includes a receiver coil that captures wireless power from the transmission device and a transmitter coil that redistributes the power to one or more receiving devices. This setup enables the relay to extend the range of wireless power transmission, overcome obstacles, or direct power to specific locations. The detachable mounting feature allows the relay to be easily repositioned or removed as needed, providing flexibility in system configuration. The relay may also include control circuitry to manage power transfer efficiency, ensuring optimal performance. This invention addresses challenges in wireless power distribution, such as limited range and fixed transmission paths, by introducing a modular relay solution that improves coverage and adaptability in various environments.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first antenna is configured to wirelessly receive the AC power signal of the first frequency from the wireless power transmission apparatus when the wireless power relay apparatus is detachably mounted on the surface of the wireless power transmission apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A wireless power relay apparatus is designed to facilitate power transfer between a wireless power transmission apparatus and a receiving device. The apparatus includes a first antenna configured to wirelessly receive an AC power signal of a first frequency from the wireless power transmission apparatus when the relay apparatus is detachably mounted on the transmission apparatus. The relay apparatus also includes a second antenna configured to wirelessly transmit the AC power signal of the first frequency to the receiving device. Additionally, the relay apparatus may include a power conversion circuit to convert the received AC power signal into a DC power signal, which can then be converted back into an AC power signal of a second frequency for transmission to the receiving device. The relay apparatus may also include a mounting mechanism to securely attach to the wireless power transmission apparatus, ensuring stable power transfer. The system is designed to enhance wireless power delivery efficiency and flexibility, particularly in scenarios where direct transmission between the transmission apparatus and the receiving device is impractical or inefficient. The relay apparatus may also include control circuitry to manage power transfer, optimize efficiency, and ensure safe operation.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wireless power reception apparatus is an implantable apparatus or a body attachment apparatus.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to wireless power transmission systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently delivering power to implantable or body-attached medical devices. Traditional wired power solutions for such devices are impractical due to infection risks and limited mobility. The invention provides a wireless power reception apparatus designed to be either implanted within a body or attached to the skin, enabling safe and reliable power transfer from an external transmitter. The apparatus includes a receiving coil configured to capture electromagnetic energy from the transmitter and convert it into usable electrical power for the device. The system ensures compatibility with medical-grade materials to prevent adverse biological reactions and incorporates shielding to minimize interference with other medical equipment. The apparatus may also include energy storage components to maintain operation during temporary disruptions in power transmission. This solution enhances patient mobility and reduces the need for invasive procedures associated with battery replacements in implantable devices. The invention is particularly useful for powering pacemakers, neurostimulators, and other medical implants, as well as wearable health monitors that require continuous power without physical connections.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second frequency is different from the first frequency, and the second frequency is equal to an operating frequency for a wireless power reception of the wireless power reception apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A wireless power transmission system includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter generates a magnetic field at a first frequency to transfer power to the receiver. The receiver operates at a second frequency, which is different from the first frequency, to receive the transmitted power. The second frequency matches the operating frequency of the receiver's wireless power reception circuitry. The system may include a resonant circuit in the transmitter to generate the magnetic field and a matching circuit in the receiver to optimize power transfer efficiency. The transmitter and receiver may communicate to adjust the first frequency based on the receiver's operating conditions. The system may also include a feedback mechanism to monitor power transfer efficiency and dynamically adjust the first frequency to maintain optimal performance. The receiver's operating frequency is fixed to ensure compatibility with its internal power conversion components, while the transmitter's frequency is adjustable to accommodate variations in power demand or environmental factors. This design allows efficient wireless power transfer even when the transmitter and receiver operate at different frequencies.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the wireless power relay apparatus is configured to be detachably mounted on a surface of the wireless power transmission apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A wireless power relay system is designed to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of wireless power transmission. The system includes a wireless power transmission apparatus that generates an electromagnetic field to transfer power to one or more wireless power receiving devices. A wireless power relay apparatus is positioned within the electromagnetic field to receive power from the transmission apparatus and then retransmit it to the receiving devices. This relay apparatus is configured to be detachably mounted on the surface of the wireless power transmission apparatus, allowing for easy installation, removal, or repositioning as needed. The relay apparatus may include one or more relay coils that resonate at a frequency matching the transmission apparatus to optimize power transfer. The system may also include a control unit that monitors and adjusts the power transmission parameters to ensure efficient and safe operation. The detachable mounting feature allows the relay apparatus to be repositioned or replaced without disrupting the overall system, providing flexibility in deployment and maintenance. This configuration is particularly useful in environments where the distance or alignment between the transmission apparatus and receiving devices varies, ensuring reliable power delivery.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the generating of the AC power signal of the second frequency comprises the power oscillator starting to oscillate, in response to the first antenna starting to receive the AC power signal of the first frequency and the DC voltage reaching the reference value.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless power transfer systems, specifically methods for generating AC power signals at different frequencies in a resonant inductive coupling system. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and controlled power transfer between a transmitter and a receiver, particularly when transitioning between different operating frequencies. The method involves a power oscillator that generates an AC power signal at a first frequency for transmission via a first antenna. When the first antenna begins receiving an AC power signal of the first frequency and a DC voltage reaches a reference value, the power oscillator starts oscillating to generate an AC power signal at a second frequency. This transition ensures stable power transfer and synchronization between the transmitter and receiver. The system may include a rectifier circuit to convert the received AC power signal into DC voltage, which is then monitored to determine when it reaches the reference value, triggering the frequency change. The method ensures efficient power transfer by dynamically adjusting the operating frequency based on the received signal and voltage conditions. This approach improves energy efficiency and reliability in wireless power transmission systems.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the second frequency is different from the first frequency and is identical to an operating frequency for a wireless power reception of the wireless power reception apparatus.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for wireless power transmission involves transmitting power at a first frequency to a wireless power reception apparatus. The method includes adjusting the transmission frequency to a second frequency, which differs from the first frequency and matches the operating frequency of the wireless power reception apparatus. This adjustment ensures efficient power transfer by aligning the transmission frequency with the reception apparatus's optimal operating frequency, improving energy transfer efficiency and reducing losses. The system may dynamically switch between frequencies based on environmental conditions, load requirements, or reception apparatus specifications to maintain optimal power delivery. The method may also include monitoring the power transfer efficiency and adjusting the transmission frequency accordingly to maximize performance. This approach addresses challenges in wireless power transmission, such as frequency mismatches that reduce efficiency and cause energy waste. By dynamically aligning the transmission frequency with the reception apparatus's operating frequency, the system enhances power transfer reliability and effectiveness.

Classification Codes (CPC)

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Patent Metadata

Filing Date

February 22, 2021

Publication Date

November 29, 2022

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